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Giant Python Captured in Garland, Texas: Exotic Pet Escapes, Terrifies Residents
Garland, Texas (June 11, 2025) – A Massive 15-foot python caused quite a stir in a Garland neighborhood last Friday night, prompting a call to the Garland Animal control Department. What initially seemed like a routine snake call turned into an extraordinary event for city control officer Alejandro Jaramillo.
Harrowing Encounter With The Escaped Python
Arriving at the scene near Apache Drive and Broadway Boulevard, Jaramillo quickly realized this was no ordinary snake. The enormous reticulated python was slithering through a residential courtyard. A resident,seeking refuge,was found hiding under his truck,terrified by the sight of the enormous reptile.
“My heart shrunk when I saw it,” Jaramillo recounted.”I thought: ‘Oh, my god!'”
A video released by the city captured the 15-foot (4.5 meters) python gliding across the grass, drawing a crowd of onlookers filled with both horror and fascination.
The Capture: A Two-Hour ordeal
Jaramillo’s initial attempt to use a snake hook proved futile due to the python’s immense size. He then tried to capture the snake with his bare hands, resulting in the python attempting to strike back. The struggle continued as the python moved toward the street, prompting jaramillo to pull it back onto the property.
“I was agitated,” Jaramillo admitted. “They are much faster than one thinks.”
The python eventually sought refuge near a truck engine. By making loud noises, Jaramillo managed to lure the snake out. After nearly two hours, he successfully captured the animal using a net and a cane, with a co-worker providing a large fabric bag to contain the massive snake.
Owner Located, Python to Return Home
Authorities later located the python’s owner, who was in the process of moving when the snake escaped.According to Alberto Maldonado, Coordinator of Community Extension of Services for Animals of Garland, the owner, who possesses a state license to keep exotic pets, is scheduled to retrieve the python. The snake will then be transported to its new home outside of Garland.
The owner received no summons. Maldonado confirmed the owner’s legal right to own such an animal.
About Reticulated Pythons
Reticulated pythons are among the world’s longest and heaviest snakes.They can grow up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) in length and weigh over 100 pounds (45 kilograms). As constrictors, they subdue their prey by wrapping around them and squeezing.
Did You Know? While rare, there have been documented cases of reticulated pythons preying on humans.
While attacks on humans are infrequent,their size and strength demand respect and caution.
This incident is not the first snake-related scare in northern Texas. In 2021, a venomous copperhead snake escaped in Grand Prairie, causing notable anxiety among residents.
The owner of the copperhead received 15 months of community supervision, though the snake was never found. The increase in ownership of exotic animal, could result in more snakes getting loose.
Past Escapes: A Worrying Trend?
The Garland incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities associated with owning exotic pets. Escaped animals can pose a threat to both the public and the local ecosystem.
Have you ever encountered a wild animal in an unexpected place? What precautions should pet owners take to prevent escapes?
Understanding Python Behavior and safety
Pythons, members of the Pythonidae family, are non-venomous constrictors found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. These snakes possess premaxillary teeth, lay eggs, and are known for their impressive size. Some species have become invasive in the Western Hemisphere, highlighting the potential ecological risks associated with escaped or released pythons, according to the Wikipedia entry on Pythonidae.
Python Size and Diet
Reticulated pythons primarily feed on mammals and birds, using their powerful constriction to subdue their prey. An adult python’s diet can include large rodents, livestock, and, in rare instances, larger animals.
Preventing Python Escapes: A Guide for Owners
Ensuring the safety of both the community and the pet requires responsible ownership.Here are some key steps to prevent python escapes:
- Secure Enclosures: Use robust enclosures with locking mechanisms to prevent the snake from escaping.
- Regular Inspections: Routinely inspect the enclosure for any signs of wear or potential escape routes.
- Proper Handling: Handle pythons with care and avoid situations where they might feel threatened or stressed.
- Microchipping: Consider microchipping your python for easier identification and recovery if it escapes.
- Emergency Plan: develop a detailed plan in case of an escape, including contact information for local animal control and reptile experts.
Pro Tip: Educate yourself about local regulations and
Did the python in Garland, Texas, originate from a local wild animal population or was it an escaped/released pet?
15-Foot Python Terrifies Garland neighborhood | Snake News & Safety
The quiet suburban streets of Garland, Texas, were recently shaken by an unexpected event: the sighting of a massive 15-foot python. This startling incident has sent ripples of concern throughout the community, raising questions about snake safety, reptile behavior, and the potential risks of exotic animals in residential areas. This article delves into the details of the event, exploring the implications for residents and providing crucial information about snake identification and preventative measures. Keywords used throughout this article include: python snake, snake sighting, Garland python, python size, snake safety tips, and reptile encounters.
The Garland Python Sighting: What Happened?
Details are still emerging, but initial reports confirm the presence of a large python, estimated to be around 15 feet in length, spotted roaming residential areas in Garland. Local authorities, including animal control and the Garland Police Department, responded to numerous calls from concerned residents. The exact species of the python snake is still unconfirmed (possibly a Burmese python or another type of large constrictor snake). The pythonS origins and whether it was an escaped pet, intentionally released, or a natural wild animal (unlikely in this specific geographic area) are under examination. Further investigation is needed to determine the origin. Initial reports suggest a search for this snake included both daytime and nighttime hours with thermal imaging.
Impact on the Garland Community
The python sighting has understandably caused meaningful anxiety within the Garland community. Residents are concerned for the safety of themselves, their pets, and their children. The incident underscores the importance of being informed about potential reptile encounters and knowing how to react appropriately. Local news outlets have been actively covering the story, providing updates and sharing expert opinions on snake behavior.
Some of the immediate community concerns include:
- Pet Safety: Worry about pets, especially smaller animals.
- Children’s Safety: Parents are on alert in parks and residential yards.
- Home Security: Concerned about the python entering their homes.
Snake Identification & Species Insights
Proper snake identification is crucial for snake safety. While the exact species is unknown, the size suggests a Burmese python or a similar type of large constrictor. Characteristics to look for include:
- Body Shape: Constrictors like pythons have thick, muscular bodies.
- Head Shape: Pythons have a distinct head shape, often with heat-sensing pits.
- Coloration: Coloring varies, but Burmese pythons often have a pattern of light brown or tan with darker blotches.
- scale patterns: Pythons have distinct scales, which are different on the face, around the eyes, and along the spine.
Comparing Common Python Species found as pets.
| Species (Common Names) | Average Length | Typical Temperament | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burmese Python | 12-20 feet | Can be unpredictable, requires expert handling | Extremely large, high maintenance, potential danger |
| Ball Python | 3-6 feet | Generally docile, good for beginners | Relatively easy to care for, prone to certain diseases |
| Reticulated python | 15-25 feet | Can be aggressive, high risk | Extremely large, requires expert handling, powerful bite |
Disclaimer: Captive pythons can vary in size and appearance. Always consult with a reptile expert for accurate identification.
snake Safety Tips for Garland Residents
Considering the recent python snake sighting,it’s essential for garland residents to implement snake safety precautions. Here are some key tips:
- Stay Alert: Be vigilant, especially in areas with dense vegetation or near water sources.
- Supervise Children & Pets: Keep a close eye on children and pets, especially when outdoors.
- Clear Yoru Yard: Remove any potential hiding places for snakes, such as overgrown grass, rock piles, and woodpiles.
- secure Your Home: Seal any cracks or openings in your home’s foundation and walls.
- Learn about Local Species: Familiarize yourself with the common snake species found in your area and their characteristics.
- Do NOT attempt to catch or handle the snake: It is indeed very dangerous. Rather, contact the Garland Police Department or animal Control immediately.
What to Do If You Encounter A Snake
If you encounter a snake in your yard or home, follow these steps:
- Stay Calm: remain calm and do not panic.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the snake.
- Observe: Note the snake’s size, color, markings, and behavior.
- Alert Authorities: Contact the Garland police Department or Animal Control.
- Protect Pets and Children: Keep children and pets away from the location of the sighting.
Expert Insights and Commentary
Dr. Emily carter, a herpetologist, notes, “The presence of a python of this size poses a significant risk. It is important to understand the type of snake involved,potential risks,and the reason for the snake’s appearance.” She emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for stronger regulations to prevent the escape or release of exotic animals. Her opinions and advice can be found on local news platforms that covered the event.
Safety Experts within the community also noted the community’s need to be extra vigilant. Experts can also inform the public of potential health concerns, such as what to do if bitten by a snake and the best courses of actions to take.
Additional Note: The City of Garland has not stated whether any new measures will be in place.
